With the warmest winter climate of any major U.S. city, the art deco neighborhoods of South Beach, and an elegant, walkable downtown along the beach, it is no wonder Miami is such a popular retirement destination. Florida's favorable taxes, tremendous health care options, available recreation activities and the abundant arts scene are just some of the reasons so many choose to live their twilight years in Miami. If you have decided to retire in Miami, these five retirement communities are worth a closer look.

The Palace owns and operates several senior living rental communities in South Florida, providing the full continuum of care for residents and their family members. The Palace Suites is a luxury rental apartment building for active seniors. Amenities include an elegant lobby, plaza, cafe and cocktail lounge, theater, arts and crafts studio, library, gym and wellness center, and lush gardens. Guests can have gourmet meals specifically prepared, and arrange for personal shopping and housekeeping services.

The Palace Renaissance is a traditional assisted-living community with specialized staff and services catering to the needs of residents who are frail, or suffering from Alzheimer's disease or dementia. Residents receive three meals a day and individual attention and assistance with daily activities such as supervision of medications in this alternative to a nursing home. The Palace Renaissance features furnished studios, and residents have many opportunities for socialization and mental and physical stimulation, supervised social activities and even a daily happy hour.

"Catered living" at The Palace Royale is designed for seniors who are cognitively alert but need help with daily activities such as bathing, dressing or supervision of medications. Staff provides long-term care for those who need skilled nursing care and/or short-term rehabilitation such as physical therapy. Fully furnished one-bedroom apartments are available to rent on a monthly basis.

The newest property operated by The Palace Group is a separate $100 million facility inspired by the Four Seasons George V Hotel in Paris. Representing the pinnacle of senior living in South Florida, the community offers over 240 luxurious senior living residences with a diverse retail component on the ground level. The Palace at Coral Gables is a magnificent nine-story structure on Andalusia Avenue, just steps away from the vibrant Miracle Mile shopping district.

The grand lobby features marble floors, crystal chandeliers, French-style carved moldings and two dramatic grand staircases. The indoor swimming pool is adorned with a Venetian-inspired sky-painted ceiling, Mediterranean columns and painted canvas murals. For those looking for true opulent retirement living, the level of amenities and services available at the Palace at Coral Gables is unparalleled.

The grounds at Livewell at Courtyard Plaza provide resort-style living specializing in care for residents with Alzheimer's disease, featuring on-campus Medicare-certified home health services. Livewell offers a five-star atmosphere with a grand lobby, fine dining, theater, billiards room, library and two cocktail lounges. Residents receive around-the-clock assistance with daily routines, and many opportunities for social stimulation are available. The on-site wellness center and trained nursing services staff help provide peace of mind, and pets are always welcome. Residents can also take advantage of the beauty salon, barbershop and complimentary transportation services.

Providing one of the best values in South Florida retirement living, the Imperial Club appeals to those desiring an independent lifestyle. Additional assisted-living services are available as residents' needs change over time. Imperial Club is owned by Affordable Community Housing Trust, a not-for-profit organization with a mission to develop affordable, quality housing for seniors across the nation. Imperial Club is known for its all-inclusive lifestyle, warm and committed staff, and rates that are much lower than most facilities in the area.

The luxurious Vi at Aventura community offers independent living, as well as assisted living, memory support and skilled nursing facilities in its on-campus care center. In addition to on-campus lifestyle and fitness programming, residents enjoy fine dining and a wide variety of activities. Residents are welcome to enjoy the heated swimming pool and spa, outdoor gardens and 24-hour concierge assistance. Available floor plans include one- and two-bedroom apartments with an optional den.